Delivered to its first owner on the 4th August 1967, this remarkable Toyota Corona 1500 Saloon, one of the first sold through the Toyota GB and just 1 of 3 examples left registered looks utterly sensational and must be one of the rarest cars on UK roads! Finished in her original Solar Red with Red interior this Corona has obviously been cherished over the course of its 53 years motoring and at some point in recent years has obviously been subject to detailed restoration as she could easily pass for an example that’s only left the showroom in recent years.
Walking around the car one can't help but be astounded by the condition of the bodywork. The paintwork has a wonderful sheen and finish, with panel gaps that would shame many a European, read English built, counterpart, the chrome-work remains bright and nicely detailed and the glass / rubbers etc are all in great condition too.
Opening the door, which notably closes with the lightest of touches, the red vinyl interior can only be described in 'as new' condition, with the carpets, over-mats and seats showing zero wear and on sitting in the drivers seat one thing that immediately stands out is how modern the interior of this 60’s classic feels. Gone are the wooden dash and door-caps veneers found in similar Triumphs or the austere darkness of some 1960’s Ford models, this Japanese car maker was certainly on the front of a new wave of modern motoring and the Corona its car for the masses.
Mechanically the car has naturally seen very little use in recent years, with less than 4k miles driven in the last 20 years. The show worthy engine bay presents fantastically and with it’s auto-choke the 1500cc fires readily and settles in a smooth idle. Out on the open road, enjoying a mixture of country ‘B’ roads and busier ‘A’ class roads we’re happy to report that the Corona drives superbly too, with no wind noise to mention, smooth power delivery, light steering and keen brakes, she’s a real delight and pleasure to drive.
Coming with a great history file too, owners manual, her original buff logbook (showing she still wears her original registration), MOT’s dating back to 1970, invoices for works over the years, period sales brochures and even a bill of sale from 1969 when at 2 years old she passed to her second owner, who part-exchanged a similar aged, 1967, Morris Minor Traveller, valued at £465 (!) + £200, in order to own Toyota’s modern motor.
Unrepeatable and remarkable in every way, we don't think you’re likely to see another 60’s classic that’s so rare on the roads. Whether you’re a purest and wish to enjoy a classic thats different to the norm or a ‘tuner’ / Japanese fan looking to steal the show with your latest “Kyusha” / “Kaido” car creation this 1967 Toyota Corona appeals to all….she’s so good we could even see her taking centre stage at display your local Toyota dealership!
27 авг 2024
